Struggling with First Impressions at Work? How Can I Improve My Skills and Confidence?

I am working at TBSS in Pune. The first time, I did not answer the question asked by the trainer. The trainer thinks that I am a loser. I want to improve my skills. What can I do?

Try to spare some time on homework so that you can gain knowledge about the field you are working in. Then observe how other people are working. Think before you act or say anything. By doing this, you can automatically improve your personality. All the best.

Hi,

First of all, I think it is very unfair for a trainer to make you feel like a loser. I hope it is not a case of you completely misunderstanding the trainer.

From your communication above, I urge you to focus on improving your communication skills. The options for you to improve your English language skills and communication are to read extensively, use English to communicate as often as possible, and if possible, attend a short-term English Language Skills program.

Over time, you will notice that you are getting more confident, and perhaps then you will be able to interact more effectively.

Best wishes

Hi Friend,

If you cannot answer the question of a trainer, it doesn't mean that you are a loser. Instead, try to improve the specific area of knowledge from where the question arose. Sometimes, it is possible that we don't know many things, but we should never take it in a negative way because it's a way to enhance your skills.

You should try to enhance your common knowledge by reading the newspaper and try to improve your vocabulary. Also, it will be helpful for you to read some articles related to your area of work. Making a positive and effective impact is not a tough task; it only requires key points to remember.

If I really see something, it is the abundance of knowledge and skill in you. You really don't have to impress someone; try to let yourself know what you are worth. Just ask yourself, why do you need to impress someone so insignificant like your team leader? At present, you are the most important thing and nothing else. Think about all the things you are good at, and you will automatically soar high.

Don't trust me, trust yourself for a minute.

Hi, first of all, remember that nobody can make you feel like a loser unless you yourself feel like one. Communication involves two basic aspects: 1. Language and 2. Good Body Language.

To improve your language skills, you should read, write, listen, and talk in English. Try your best and do not feel ashamed or discouraged when you make mistakes. Mistakes are a part of the learning process, and without them, you cannot improve. Stop thinking that others are making fun of you. Instead, focus on your mistakes and how you can correct them. Form a group of your own and practice speaking English with them. Alternatively, join any coaching institute that will provide you with opportunities to practice speaking.

Regarding body language, first, learn to maintain eye contact. That means looking at people in the eye when you speak with them. This creates a good impression and also relieves tension. Learn how to walk erectly, sit in a relaxed and confident posture.

You should work on both aspects simultaneously because they complement each other and yield the best results. Good luck to you.

Hi Sarang,

First of all, remember one thing always that no one can make you feel small without your consent. So, be yourself and show the world who you are. Work on every aspect, whether it is communication skills or body language. I totally agree with Maithreyi that both of them are parts of the same coin. So, next time, give no attention to such kind of people and be the Sarang who you are.

Good luck for the future and trust yourself.

First thing you should do is SACK THE TRAINER to show and believe you are not a "loser". Having said that, I think (from what I gathered from your post) that you need to improve your communication skills, especially English comprehension. Perhaps the trainer has not been able to explain things to you properly, or you have misunderstood his explanation about being a winner or a loser. Believe in yourself, and you will see the difference. Do some reading on interpersonal skills and presentation skills; that should help you present yourself better.

Hi,

First and foremost, I can say with all the confidence and conviction that it is not you who is the loser, but it is the trainer who is the loser. A trainer's job and credentials depend on how well he can mold the target audience with his training abilities by providing individual attention. Any trainer worth his salt must possess the natural flair and passion towards his job. Only then can he be identified as a good trainer.

Also, as per your query, I feel there is no hard and fast rule that any participant has to make his or her first move to answer a trainer's query, even if it means that the participant has excellent communication skills. There is absolutely no rhyme or reason to rush your answer and get into a race of answering first. Training programs are not a buzzer round quiz competition (though it can be used as a methodology at times) to rush and shout your answers.

Furthermore, another important aspect is that your worry of not answering quickly has nothing to do with the first impression. The meaning, definition, and context of the first impression cannot be simply compared with your situation. We shall discuss more about it.

Wishing you all the very best and Warm Regards,

Girimaji